How hard is 4 Pass Loop?
The Four Pass Loop is a difficult, 28-mile loop trail located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area in Central Colorado. The trail traverses four mountain passes over 12,000 feet and can be hiked in 3-5 days.
Do you need a bear canister for the Four Pass Loop?
ALERT: Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route within Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness is an international treasure.
How long does it take to hike Four Pass Loop?
three to four days
Typically it takes three to four days to complete the challenging loop. The trip can be extended with side trips to Geneva Lake and Willow Pass or done at a more leisurely pace to allow time for exploration and relaxation amid the breathtaking scenery. I recommend walking the loop in a clockwise direction.
How do you backpack a Four Pass Loop?
10 Do’s and Don’ts for Backpacking Aspen’s Four Pass Loop
- DO go when the wildflowers are in bloom.
- DO take four days to finish.
- DON’T forget rain gear.
- DON’T be selfish.
- DO catch a sunrise at Maroon Lake, Crater Lake, and Snowmass Lake.
- DO bring a bandana or wide brim hat.
- DO share the adventure.
Can you do the Four Pass Loop in two days?
Most people backpack the loop in 3-4 days. Some people trail run it in a day! We decided to try it in 2 days. Our original plan was two get through 2 of the passes, camp, and then finish the remaining two passes the next day.
Where does the Four Pass Loop Start?
Parking is VERY limited in both the day use and overnight lots. From Crested Butte: The Four Pass Loop can also be started from the East Fork trailhead near Schofield Park. Follow the trail to the Frigid Air/West Maroon junction and then start the loop from there. (The one-way distance to the junction is 3.1 miles.)
Do I need a permit to backpack Maroon Bells?
No fee is required to backpack in the Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness or hike the Four Pass Loop. Many people access the Loop from the Maroon Lake trailhead at Maroon Lake within Maroon Bells Scenic Area, a recreation fee area. Permit Info: Maroon Bells/Snowmass Wilderness Restrictions.
Do you need a permit to hike Maroon Bells?
Permit Info: Conundrum Permit Requirement: A permit is required for overnight stays in Conundrum Hot Springs Zone. This permit must be acquired in advance at recreation.gov. For all other overnight trips to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness registration is required at the trailhead.
Can you drive to Maroon Bells?
Private vehicles can drive up to the Bells before 8am and after 5pm. New this year, parking reservations ($10) are required to use the road. These can be made directly via the Aspen Resort Chamber Association’s website.
How difficult is Maroon Bells hike?
It’s a Rocky Mountain landscape painted with cascades, lakes, golden aspens, and all against the backdrop of the peaks of the Maroon Bells….Maroon Bells Hike Snapshot.
| Hike Distance | Five Trails: 1 to 13 miles Round Trip – Depending on Trail |
|---|---|
| Activities | Hiking, Backpacking, Camping |
Do you need a permit for Maroon Bells?
What is the four pass loop?
A Colorado backcountry classic, Four Pass Loop travels around the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area over four mountain passes that exceed 12,000 feet. The loop extends for a total of 27 miles and includes more than 8,000 feet of elevation gain. The route is a grand tour through meadows, valleys, alpine lakes, streams, and wildflowers.
When is the best time to hike the four pass loop?
The Four Pass Loop backpacking season stretches from July to October. In the early season, expect muddy trails, big creek crossings, and snow on the passes. On the bright side, you’ll see far fewer people.
Can I take my Dog on the four pass loop?
Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Four Pass Loop is a challenging backpacking trip through the striking Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.
When does it snow on the four pass loop in Utah?
Note : The Four Pass Loop is often snow-bound from October through June. No fee is required to backpack in the Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness or hike the Four Pass Loop. Many people access the Loop from the Maroon Lake trailhead at Maroon Lake within Maroon Bells Scenic Area, a recreation fee area.